An essential part of home maintenance is checking your chimney for damage. It could lead to problems for other parts of your house if something happens to it. Let’s say your chimney has a number of structural problems that cause loose stones to fall off. These loose stones can then damage your roof! It doesn’t take long before you rack up a huge repair bill.
So, how exactly do you inspect your chimney for repairs? Here we’ve outlined a few defects to look out for, and what you should do if you spot them.
Mortar joint problems
The mortar joints of chimneys are a common source of chimney problems. They are the little spaces or cavities between the stone pieces in your chimney. Depending on how old your chimney is, these joints may become eroded or even cracked and damaged over time. The stones may be loosen or moisture may seep in, causing water damage. Good news is that this problem is easy to detect, and you should pay attention to the structure of your chimney both inside your house and out at the top of your roof. Binoculars are another option you might consider if you cannot reach the top with a ladder.
Masonry pieces falling off
When you see masonry pieces falling from your chimney, it is a clear indication that there is a defect. If this happens to you, you’ll need to have your chimney fixed immediately. However, even if part of the stone falls off, it could be a sign of worse things to come. Don’t risk anything, call a chimney repair service right away.
Getting Rust On Your Fireplace
A rusty fireplace could mean that you have a problem with your chimney. Usually, this means that water or moisture has made its way into the chimney shaft, which shouldn’t happen. It could also be the result of cracks in the chimney stones or problems with the mortar joints. It is a good indicator that you should have your chimney inspected further if it has rusted.
Things Around Your Chimney That Get Damaged
The condition of the walls near the chimney in your loft could be a sign of some possible defects that need to be checked. If your home is experiencing moisture problems, the main culprit could be mortar joints or stone defects. The presence of damaged wallpaper around your chimney is a sign that something needs to be checked thoroughly.
How To Deal With Chimney Defects
Contact a professional stonemasons as soon as you notice a chimney defect, or see signs that there may be one. If the mortar joints need to be repaired or the stone structure of the chimney needs to be repaired, repointing may be required. The most cost-effective and best solution to your chimney problem may be a whole new installation.
Please contact us if you have any chimney or stonemasons and stone repair problems, and we will be happy to provide you with the assistance needed.